INSPECTION. A team from the Bacolod city government checks a junk shop and issues a notice of violation to its owner for using a different business permit on July 19, 2022. The inspection was conducted in compliance with the order of Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez to strictly enforce the anti-fencing law to address the increasing cases of copper and electrical wire pilferage in the city.(Photo courtesy of Bacolod City PIO) BACOLOD CITY - The city government here is strictly enforcing the anti-fencing law to address the increasing cases of copper and electrical wire pilferage. As of Friday, the Business Permits and Licensing Office (BPLO) has started the inspection of junk shops in compliance with Executive Order (EO) 15 issued by Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez. "I take things seriously. A notice of violation has already been served by the BPLO to a certain junk shop," the mayor said. Benitez said the city government will be strict and will not hesitate to cancel the mayor's permits of businesses violating the anti-fencing law. "If you know anyone that violates EO 15, please let me know, and they will be dealt with accordingly," he added. "Fencing" refers to the act of any person who, with gain for himself or for another, shall buy and sell or in another manner deal in any item, which he knows or should be known to him, to have been derived from the proceeds of the crime of robbery or theft. A "fence" is any person, firm, association, corporation or partnership, or another organization that commits the act of fencing. Under EO 15, all establishments, stores, or entities dealing in the buy and sell of goods obtained from an unlicensed dealer or supplier are required to secure the necessary clearance or permit from the station commander of the Philippine National Police. Village chiefs are also enjoined to assist in the monitoring and strict enforcement of the law within their jurisdiction. (PNA) }